US generic drugmakers welcome Senate proposal on 'Free Generic Fill'

The USA's Generic Pharmaceutical Association (GPhA 'applauds the Senate Finance Committee for approving the 'Free Generic Fill' provision, which would save patients and the federal government more than $6 billion over 10 years. This fix to current law will not only save billions, it will result in a fund being created to pay for the operating expenses for school-based health centers. It's a win-win for countless Americans young and old,' said Kathleen Jaeger, president and chief executive of the Association.

'Specifically, the Free Generic Fill provision would 'create an exception to allow health plan sponsors to encourage beneficiaries to utilize generic drugs by allowing them to waive co-pays as an incentive to try a generic drug.' In the commercial market, it is routine for plan sponsors to waive one to three months of co-pays to encourage patients to try generic medicines. This is done because generics are just as safe and effective as brand name drugs, but cost up to 80% less,' she added.

'Clearly, Congress has recognized that expanding access to generic medicines is the key to lowering health care costs while increasing access to quality care. Generics represent 72% of the total prescriptions dispensed in the United States, but only 17% of all dollars spent on prescription drugs,' Ms Jaeger concluded.

GPhA names Bill Head senior VP of government affairs

Meantime, the GPhA announced that Bill Head has been named to the newly-created position of senior vice president of government affairs, effective immediately. In this position, Mr Head will be responsible for developing and executing the Association's federal legislative strategies as well as coordinating GPhA government affairs activities with member companies and coalitions. He will report directly to Kathleen Jaeger.